## Cardiff Primary School Faces Criticism Over Fundraising Event ‘Segregation’
A Cardiff primary school is under scrutiny after parents alleged that pupils who did not pay a fee were excluded from a recent fundraising event, sparking a wider debate around inclusivity in schools. Christ the King Catholic Primary School, located in Llanishen, hosted a physical activity fundraiser during school hours in which a range of sports activities were provided for students who contributed financially to the initiative.
The event, promoted as an “endurance and skill fundraiser”, offered experiences such as axe-throwing and archery to those who paid at least £1 to participate. Over 130 children reportedly joined in, helping raise over £2,200 for the school’s enrichment programmes. However, 59 pupils remained in their classrooms, having not paid the required fee or because their contributions arrived after the cut-off time.
Concerns emerged among parents and carers, many of whom questioned the ethics of organising such events during compulsory school hours. Some claimed that excluding children from activities places undue stress on families already under financial strain. “Not every parent is in a position to afford these extra costs, and separating the children during the school day just isn’t right,” one parent commented. “Many children missed out simply because their families couldn’t contribute or didn’t pay on time.”
The provision of more substantial “prizes” depending on the amount raised has drawn further criticism. According to the information sent to parents, children could earn footballs or sports sessions with progressively higher sponsorship, the highest being a week-long place at a Sports Xtra holiday camp. One parent remarked that such incentives create peer pressure and can intensify inequity among classmates.
Adding to the controversy was the involvement of Sports Xtra, the external company running the fundraiser, whose co-owner is reportedly the husband of the school’s deputy headteacher. Some parents voiced concerns about potential conflicts of interest. In response, the school has stressed that all funds raised would be directed to future activities for all pupils and none were paid to the company. Sports Xtra clarified that their participation was done without financial gain, even donating prizes totalling over £1,400.
The school sent a letter to families acknowledging the dissatisfaction and promising a thorough review of fundraising practices. “Based on feedback, we are examining how future events can be made more inclusive,” the letter stated, noting the aim to ensure that every child would ultimately benefit from the monies raised. During the event, those not involved continued their normal class timetable, according to a spokesperson, who emphasised participation was voluntary and the session optional.
Despite reassurances, some parents report tensions remain high. There are suggestions that families have since withdrawn children from after-school activities provided by Sports Xtra as a form of protest. The school’s leadership has expressed remorse for any distress caused, reiterating their intention to communicate further measures once the review concludes.
Wider questions are now being asked about the role of fundraising within state-funded schools, particularly where participation is linked to money raised. Educational experts note the delicate balance between securing additional resources and maintaining a sense of equality and inclusion for all children during the school day.
While the school maintains that the enrichment activities funded go well beyond the statutory curriculum and are intended to enhance the broader educational experience, the recent episode highlights the complex challenges faced by schools seeking to supplement budgets in the current financial climate. It also raises essential questions around fairness and the responsibilities of schools toward every pupil under their care.
As the school evaluates feedback and considers adjustments, many parents will be watching closely to see whether future fundraising events uphold a commitment to inclusivity and community spirit – values at the heart of primary education.